Spring is on the way and storm preparation is on our mind. At this time of year, competing warm and cold fronts converge in Indiana skies. The seasonal clash that occurs brings the highest average daily chance of rain in a typical year, as well as thunderstorms with the potential for hail, high winds, and the occasional tornado.
Certain components of your HVAC system, namely the outdoor condenser unit, are exposed to spring storms. Indoor elements are also vulnerable to secondary effects of wild weather, such as voltage surges.
To ensure your HVAC system makes it through the season unscathed, here are some spring storm preparation hints:
- Secure the outside unit. The system condenser coil is usually mounted on a concrete pad and secured by anchor bolts and nuts. Check tightness of bolts to make sure the unit can withstand high winds.
- Cover the condenser if necessary. If potentially damaging hail is forecast, covering the outdoor unit with a commercially-available fitted canvas cover may provide some protection. Note, however, that the air conditioner must remain shut down for the entire time the unit is covered or compressor damage will occur. Don’t power up the A/C until the cover is removed.
- Have surge protection installed. A nearby lightning strike that enters utility lines can send a damaging voltage surge throughout your house. In addition to a point-of-entry surge protector at the main electrical panel, for maximum protection high-voltage HVAC components like the condenser/compressor unit should also have a dedicated surge protector on its individual circuit.
- Shut down the unit during the storm. An air conditioner or furnace is less vulnerable to damage if it is turned off during a severe storm.
- Don’t power the system up if outdoor flooding has occurred. Confirm that the condenser unit outside is not submerged before you restart the A/C. Also, if the furnace is installed in a basement, check the basement for flooding before restarting heat.
For HVAC storm preparation this spring, contact Paitson Bros. For over 95 years, we’ve been here to help in all seasons and all weather.
Paitson Bros
1 (812) 232-2347
Serving the Wabash Valley, IN Area Since 1922